Ancestor Figure – Wood, Beads, Cauri shells – Mossi – Burkina Faso

Beautiful wooden Mossi figure from Burkina Faso. They made wooden ancestor figures that were controlled by the ruling elite. The ruling class use figures to validate political power. The figures, commemorated ancestors and were kept with the oldest of the wives. Good condition with traces of wear and tear. The right arm seemed to be restored.

Provenance: former private collection from the Netherlands